| How to Obtain a License
The Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration (ABRA) regulates alcoholic beverage wholesalers, retailers, and manufacturers in the District of Columbia. ABRA issues licenses to liquor stores, grocery stores, brew pubs, restaurants, hotels, nightclubs, taverns, and other establishments that manufacture, sell, or serve alcoholic beverages. ABRA also inspects license holders to ensure their compliance with regulations.
In order to obtain an Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) license, an applicant must complete and attach the following forms and fees:
- Application for Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) License: Consult the chart below for specific requirements.
- Tax Registration: All applicants must file for a District of Columbia business tax number at the Office of Tax and Revenue, 941 North Capitol Street, NE, 1st floor, Washington, DC, 20002 and submit the stamped copy of the tax certification with the application.
- Fees Due: Make all cashiers checks, money orders, or certified checks payable to the DC Treasurer. No business or personal checks will be accepted. You will also need one form of personal identification.
- License Fees: Please contact an ABRA Licensing Specialist for fees that may include prorated fees. Upon denial or withdrawal, a processing charge will be deducted as follows: Sole Proprietorship ($150), Partnership ($250), and Corporations ($350).
The application must be submitted with a tax registration, licensing fees, and proof of advertising. A routine application, with no protests, will take approximately 12 weeks for approval, which includes a 60-day placard period and a final inspection. The license and permit process takes a minimum of 60 days and may require a background investigation of the applicant. See License Filing for more information.
Please call an ABRA Licensing Specialist in advance to schedule an appointment for submission of your application at (202) 442-4423 between the hours of 9 am and 4 pm, Monday through Friday. Applications must be complete to be accepted. Select the topics below for more information on licenses and applications.
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